Abnormal vaginal bleeding - What does it mean?

Several women undergo spotting between periods or abnormal vaginal bleeding in their lives at some point or the other. Vaginal bleeding is thought to be abnormal if it transpires at a time in life when it is least expected, such as before the age of ten, after menopause or when you are pregnant. It is also an issue when menstrual flow is heavier or lighter than what is natural for you. In such cases it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.

The tests your physician prescribes may depend on your age. A frequent cause of abnormal bleeding among young women is pregnancy. Several women have abnormal bleeding in the initial few months of a healthy pregnancy. Women have months when they do not ovulate in the years before and after menopause starts. This can cause irregular uterine bleeding. Thickening of the wall of the uterus is another different reason for bleeding in women who are in their mid-forties and early fifties. This thickening of the lining can be an alarming sign of uterine cancer and may be a leading cause of abnormal bleeding in older women. An ultrasound exam sometimes helps to detect the cause of bleeding.

The two hormones that control and maintain your menstrual cycle are estrogen and progesterone. Factors like thyroid gland problems, dysfunctional ovaries, starting or stopping birth control pills can affect the hormones and cause the balance between the two hormones to disrupt. When starting any hormonal contraceptive, abnormal bleeding is common during the first three months. These contraceptives include intrauterine device, birth control pills, contraceptive implant or injection and contraceptive patch. Do not panic as sometimes bleeding is a reaction of changes and can be controlled through proper medication.

Women taking cyclic hormone therapy post menopause may encounter some vaginal bleeding. The regimen of a cyclical hormonal therapy constitute of estrogen and progesterone doses that can lead to bleeding that behaves similarly to period bleeding and is called withdrawal bleeding which happens for a few days out of the month. If you have bleeding other than expected withdrawal bleeding, contact your doctor.